When the Art Starts to Move

Select or assign a work of art to interpret (each groups artwork could be different or the same)

Have students look at the work and discuss what would happen if the work suddenly started moving.

This brings up topics of discussion such as, a moment in time, story, personal connections and feelings, ect.

students pose as the artwork and then perform what they feel would happen if the artwork suddenly started moving. 

Pair Interviews

(Compliments of Dr. Marilyn Stewart)

Students should get with a partner.

They should decide who will play the role of the reporter and who will one of the following…

-the artist

-a character or object in the artwork

-the artwork itself

The reporter will interview their partner (acting in their chosen role) and the partner will answer using movement, gestures, and body language.

These interviews could be shared with other groups.

Topics of discussion might include… was it believable and how did it change/influence your view of the work.

Partners could switch roles and do it a 2^nd time assuming different roles.

Green Screen News Report

Similar to the radio show and another option with the Green  Screen would be to do a “live””breaking” news report calming that a famous work of art has been stolen from its home museum. In this report we will learn about the art, it’s history, value, relevance, and why it is so important that it be returned safely

Art on the Radio

 (Compliments of Dr. Marilyn Stewart)

With a partner or 2 have students imagine that they are the hosts for a “live” radio show that takes people to local galleries and museums [or to look at specific works of art].

The “listeners” cannot see what you see so you will have to be very descriptive. Make them feel like they are there. Offer interpretations of what it might mean/ be about,  and ultimately make them want to come see the show/work.

Don't forget to name your show!

Green Screen Tour Guide

Using the Do Ink Green Screen app, students could insert themselves in front of a work of art and take viewers on a tour highlighting key parts.

This would be really great for exploring a landscape or something like Monet’s garden. Students could practice describing in detail and making up feel like we are in the space

Sing About It

Have students write a song or rap about the work to the tune of a popular song of their choice or your choosing.  This time of year singing/ writing to the tune of their favorite Christmas carol might be fun! 

Change the words to tell the listener about the work of art, the artist, how it was made, and more.

Students can then perform for the group or use a voice recording or video app to present their song.

I was inspired for this activity after some of my 5th graders wrote me this song, 

about their coil vessels, to the tune of Meghan Trainor's "All About That Bass". 

Art Criticism Infographic

If the words don’t come easy, the pictures might… There are infographis for everything from how to make a PB&J to how to cut back on your carbon footprint, why not make one based on a work of art. They are a great means of visually sharing information and a fun way to learn.

Have students create an infographic breaking down a work of art, an artist's body of work, an art style, ect. Using a combination of pictures and words and the style of a graphic designer, students should draw the viewers attention to what one should see when looking at a work of art, make some interpretations, and give it a value. 

This activity could be done alone or in groups. 

image compliments of: http://blog.popflys.com/basically/tumblr_lh16hmr21s1qz6f9yo1_500/

Vine time!

Vine is a social media based video making app, where users create 6 second videos. 

One starts and stops the video clips simply by taping the screen. It is very easy to use and once students get the hang of it they can film in under 5 minutes.

Have students get into small groups of 2-4 students.

Select or assign a work of art to interpret (each groups artwork could be different or the same)

Have students look at the work for details and make observations and interpretations.

Next, have students create the vine video to share their interpretation.  

Based on Keith Haring's Dancing Figures